Nosebleed Prevention Tips

When the membranes that line the inside of your nose gets irritated or disturbed epistaxis can occur. Also known as having a nosebleed, this condition can be common due to the large amount of blood vessels that can be found in the nose. Your nose is also located in a vulnerable position on your face, which makes the incidence of nosebleeds much more common. However, having a general understanding of nosebleeds and knowing how to treat them will allow you to quickly take care of this common complaint.

Luckily, nosebleeds are typically minor conditions and respond well to conservative treatment at home. If you find yourself with a nosebleed, follow these treatment steps in order to stop the flow.

• Do not stuff ANYTHING into your nose.
• Don’t panic, nosebleeds are a very common condition.
• Don’t lean back as this will make blood accumulate in your throat or mouth, and this can irritate your stomach. Instead, sit down and lean forward and spit out any blood that has accumulated.
• If you have to sneeze while your nose is bleeding, try to expel the air with your mouth, not your nose.
• Keep the soft portion of your nose pinched together with your index finger and thumb until the bleeding stops. This could take anywhere from 5-10 minutes.
• After the bleeding has stopped, wash your nose and the area around your nose with warm water. Be sure to rest and take it easy afterward.
• When you get a nosebleed do not take aspirin or any other blood-thinning products. If they are prescribed, consult with your doctor.

Nosebleeds can be an inconvenience, but they can be prevented in some cases. Check out some of the ways you can help prevent nosebleeds from occurring:

1. Avoid nose picking, forceful blowing, or vigorous rubbing in order to help prevent injury to the nose lining.
2. After a nosebleed, don’t
3. Cut back or stop smoking. Smoking can be harmful since it can dry out the inside of your nose.
4. When you are sleeping keep the heat low in the room.
5. Certain medications can lead to nosebleeds, so make sure you discuss your medications with your physician.
6. Don’t place anything inside of the nose. The exceptions are saline nasal spray and/or ointment.
7. Don’t overuse allergy and cold medications.
8. Use a humidifier in your home and/or office.
9. Use saline nasal spray to help increase the moisture within the nose. However, do not use sprays for longer than 3 to 4 days at a time without consulting your physician.

If you are constantly suffering from severe nosebleeds, or your nose bleeds without stopping for 20-30 minutes, please call your physician immediately.

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